Handbook of Plant and Insect Impressions in Archaeological Ceramics: Case studies from prehistoric Japan (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781407361277)

Impressions in pottery left by the remains of cereals have long been noticed by archaeologists, but new techniques including the use of scanning electron microscopes, cast replications, and CT scans have enabled new discoveries, including within the fabric of pottery. This book provides a case study of the use of impressions analysis techniques in Japanese archaeology, re-evaluating the development of plant cultivation in prehistoric Japan, especially during the Neolithic Jomon period. New insights include evidence of soybean cultivation, pest infestations in chestnut storage, and the cohabitation of cockroaches alongside humans. This handbook introduces these new methodologies to an international audience, opening up opportunities for pottery impressions analysis worldwide.